India’s New Rules from July 1:
Key Changes in Tax Filing, PAN Cards, Rail Tickets, and Bank Charges From July 1, 2025, several new rules and regulations will come into effect in India, impacting income tax filing, PAN card applications, railway ticket bookings, and credit card usage.
These changes have been announced by government departments and major banks like SBI, HDFC, and ICICI, and are set to affect many individuals and customers.
Aadhaar Mandatory for New PAN Cards. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has made Aadhaar verification compulsory for anyone applying for a new PAN card from July 1.
Until now, applicants could use documents like a birth certificate or driving license. Also, existing PAN cardholders must link their PAN with Aadhaar by December 31, 2025, or their PAN may be deactivated.
Tatkal Train Tickets Need Aadhaar Verification
Aadhaar verification will now be required while booking Tatkal train tickets. Starting July 15, Indian Railways will also introduce two-factor authentication for all bookings, using OTP on the registered mobile number.
Train fares will also rise slightly—1 paisa per km for non-AC classes and 2 paise per km for AC classes.
Income Tax Return (ITR) Filing Deadline Extended
The deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) has been extended from July 31 to September 15, 2025.
However, taxpayers are advised to file early to avoid last-minute website issues.Credit Card Rule Changes by SBI, HDFC & ICICI
SBI Credit Card Changes: Air accident insurance will no longer be available for SBI Elite and SBI Miles cardholders. New rules for calculating the minimum due amount on credit card bills will be implemented.
HDFC Bank Updates: A 1% transaction fee will be charged on rent payments and online gaming expenses over ₹10,000. The same applies to utility bill payments over ₹50,000 (excluding insurance). Wallet loads exceeding ₹10,000 using an HDFC card will also attract this fee.
ICICI Bank Updates:
ATM Withdrawals: 5 free cash withdrawals at ICICI ATMs per month; after that, ₹23 per transaction. At non-ICICI ATMs: 3 free transactions in metros, 5 in smaller cities. Charges apply afterward.International Usage: ATM withdrawal ₹125, balance check ₹25, currency conversion charge 3.5%.
IMPS Transfers: Charges range from ₹2.50 to ₹15, depending on the amount.
Additional fees will apply for cash deposits above ₹1 lakh and third-party deposits beyond ₹25,000